Recent and past history are linked, as Bainbridge Island Historical Society debuts a film next Wednesday about the internment of Japanese American citizens in World War II.
The production, tied as it is to the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, is one of many by which islanders will observe and reflect upon the Sept. 11 attacks of a year ago.
“After Silence,” produced for the historical society by islander Lois Shelton of Foxglove Films, explores the conflict between post-attack fears for national security and guarantees to civil liberties.
It records the reactions of five Bainbridge High School students as they watch third-generation islander Dr. Frank Kitamoto develop archival photos illustrating his family’s story of exile and internment during World War II.
“When we began this video project in late summer of 2001, we had no idea how significant it would become,” said BIHS director Joan Piper in a news release.
The screening of “After Silence” is part of a day of reflection and remembrance from 1-8 p.m. at the Historical Society. Visitors to the museum will be invited to add their experience to the historical record in the museum’s book, “Where Were You on 9/11?”
The video will be shown at the museum every half-hour starting at 1:30 p.m.
As the anniversary of the terrorist attacks last year on the Pentagon and World Trade Center approaches, other island groups are also organizing events to remember and honor the victims.
* Peace Vigil: On the morning of Sept. 11, Women In Black will hold a silent vigil for peace from 5:10 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. at the Winslow ferry dock. Information: bislandwomeninblack@hotmail.com.
* Memorial Mass: St. Cecilia Catholic Church holds two memorial masses, at 9 a.m. and at 7:30 p.m. The church will also be open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. for people needing a quiet place to reflect.
* Tribute in Town Square: The city of Bainbridge Island has organized an hour-long gathering from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 11 the in town square next to city hall.
The ceremony will begin at 11:45 a.m. and will include singing of the national anthem by Sarah A. Roberts, a speech by Mayor Kordonowy and a moment of silence at noon. Art and poetry will be displayed and refreshments available in the city council chamber from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
At noon, the ringing of church bells will announce a moment of silence.
The event is co-sponsored by the city the Bainbridge Island Arts & Humanities Council, the Bainbridge Police and Fire departments, American Legion Post 172, the Bainbridge Island School District, the Interfaith Parish Council, the Chamber of Commerce, Team Winslow, Kiwanis, Rotary and other organizations. Information is available on the city’s web page, www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us.
School activities: Public schools on the island are planning to remember the attacks with activities to be determined by the teachers and students at each school.
* Rolling Requiem: On the evening of Sept. 11, the Bainbridge Chorale and other community singers join with the Bainbridge Orchestra in a performance of “Mozart’s Requiem” at 8 p.m. at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church. Admission is free; space is limited.
